Kobudo

Okinawan Kobudo can be translated as “The Way” (DO) of “the ancient” (KO) “martial art” (BU). It refers to the old traditional arts of using okinawan weapons, mainly old farming tools, as a means of self - defence for the locals. Such tools are the Rokkushaku Bo (6 ft or 1.80m long staff), Tonfa (part of an ancient hand grinder), Sai (a short metal weapon with three pointed edges), Nunchaku (2 wooden sticks connected by rope) Kama (small sickle) and other. 1609 AD is the most important year in the evolution of Kobudo. Samurai from the Satsuma Clan invaded Okinawa, bringing with them the art of the sword and the traditional japanese martial arts. Later on, they assimilated to the local population, and greatly affected the evolution of martial arts.

When King Sho Hashi banned weapon ownership and use, in order to gain political and economical control of the island, the locals who were dedicated to freedom would do anything to deceive the oppressors. It was then that the farming tools became weapons in their hands. They were trained in skillfull use of these tools. Soon, the weapon masters became the most feared force in the battle for political freedom. Another important contribution to the development of Kobudo was that of chinese martial arts. Chinese systems, being already organized and systematized many centuries ago, made use of similar weapons. Many teachers visited China for long periods, were taught these arts there, and brought them back to the island.

Another important contribution to the development of Kobudo was that of chinese martial arts. Chinese systems, being already organized and systematized many centuries ago, made use of similar weapons. Many teachers visited China for long periods, were taught these arts there, and brought them back to the island.

So all the above, combined with the particular temperament of the Ryu Kyu islanders, led to the creation of a remarkable art. The history of these weapons is part of the rich historical tradition of okinawan karate, and also an importan physical aspect of the art.

Kobudo systems

Eventhough, in most systems of okinawan karate, weapons teaching is incorporated in the teaching of unarmed techniques, there are five main Kobudo systems that teach exclusively the art of weapons. They are: